Back

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Suspended Amid Government Shutdown

lite News Desk 2 min read

At a glance

  • TSA PreCheck and Global Entry paused from February 22, 2026
  • Suspension linked to partial government shutdown starting February 14, 2026
  • Other Homeland Security operations, including FEMA, also affected

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security suspended the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs due to a partial government shutdown. The suspension began on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 6 a.m. Eastern Time.

This development follows the failure of Congress to fund the Department of Homeland Security, which resulted in a shutdown starting February 14, 2026. The interruption in funding has led to the halting of several department services, including expedited traveler programs.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the shutdown has caused real-world consequences for federal operations. She said TSA and Customs and Border Protection are focusing on the general traveling public by stopping courtesy and special privilege escorts during this period.

Other Department of Homeland Security functions have also been affected by the shutdown. FEMA has paused non-disaster-related responses, with resources redirected to prioritize disaster response activities.

What the numbers show

  • TSA PreCheck and Global Entry suspended as of February 22, 2026, 6 a.m. ET
  • Partial government shutdown began on February 14, 2026
  • Shutdown occurred after Congress did not fund the Department of Homeland Security

The suspension of these travel programs is one of several operational changes within the Department of Homeland Security during the ongoing shutdown. The department has indicated that its priority is to maintain essential services for the broader public during this period.

According to official statements, the suspension of expedited travel services is part of a broader effort to allocate limited resources to core security functions. The department has also confirmed that FEMA’s focus has shifted to disaster response, with other activities temporarily halted.

Industry reaction

Democrats on the House Committee on Homeland Security criticized the decision to suspend TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. They stated that the administration’s action undermines programs designed to make travel smoother and more secure.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement that the department is prioritizing the general traveling public and essential operations during the shutdown. She emphasized that the suspension of special privilege programs is a necessary step under the current circumstances.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

Related Articles

  1. A statement outlines goals for China-Europe collaboration and UN reforms, according to reports. The conference took place on February 14, 2026.

  2. Peptide therapy is gaining traction for health benefits, but many products lack FDA approval and safety data, according to regulatory warnings.

  3. China leads in humanoid robotics with over 140 companies and 80% of global shipments in 2025, backed by significant government funding.

  4. A filing describes Saks Global's Chapter 11 bankruptcy on January 13, 2026, and $1.75 billion in financing, according to reports.

  5. A by-election is set for 26 February 2026 due to Andrew Gwynne's resignation. Labour, Reform UK, and Greens will compete, according to reports.

More on Politics

  1. Debate continues over human spaceflight's value, with ISS costs at $150 billion raising questions about scientific returns and future missions.

  2. DHS's election security role is outlined in a statement by Secretary Kristi Noem. The House's SAVE America Act mandates voter ID measures.